Sea the Stars scares opposition away ahead of Juddmonte International

Sea the Stars is to face just four opponents from an original field of 19 in his bid for a fourth Group One victory in the Juddmonte International at York tomorrow. John Oxx's Guineas, Derby and Coral Eclipse victor has scared away most of his rivals in the 1m 2f contest. Only last year's winner, Aidan O'Brien, who saddles three including main threat, Mastercraftsman, Geirgebernardshaw and Set Sail, and Sir Michael Stoute with Tartan Bearer, stands firm. Oxx had made it clear that the public's desire to see his colt tested at the Juddmonte would not sway his decision to scratch Sea the Stars should the going turn up soft, but with York officially described as good to firm yesterday, the son of Cape Cross seems certain to start. "There's no doubt Sea the Stars sets the standard but I'm happy with going there," said the unfazed Johnny Murtagh, jockey of Mastercraftsman. sports@thenational.ae